2011 Nissan Juke: light trail duty, heavy road fun

FFWHEELS

December 03, 2010

Even in a cool climate for car buying, crossover utility vehicles remain a hot destination. So many buyers have migrated from traditional sport utility vehicles to these car-based alternatives that crossovers are currently the fourth largest segment in the auto industry.

Where most crossovers emphasize function, Nissan's new 2011 Juke puts the accent on fun. For evidence of this drivers need look no further than their feet.

Stomp on the gas pedal with authority and Juke responds in a way that's far more sporty than sensible. The main reason is the motor: a 1.6-liter direct injection, turbocharged four-cylinder. Rated at 188 horsepower with 177 lb.-ft. of torque, the lively, turbo four can be linked to either a Continuously Variable Transmission or a six-speed manual.

The stick shift gives a definite boost to Juke's sporting quotient. Though not as engaging as the manual, the CVT works well too, particularly in Sport mode. EPA estimates for fuel economy are 27 miles per gallon city; 32 mpg highway (FWD CVT); 25/30 mpg (AWD CVT); 24/31 (FWD manual). These are decent numbers, considering the amount of fun and function in the turbo Juke.

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The new Nissan is offered in base S, mid-level SV and top rung SL trims with prices ranging from $18,960 to $24,550 (plus $750 destination).

Juke is not designed for hard core off-roading, though light trail work is easily within its reach. The torque vectoring AWD system has the capacity to channel power not only front to back, but also side to side across the rear axle as needed, to maximize grip. Traction is improved on wet or dry roads, and really, the only drawback I see with the AWD system is that it isn't offered with the manual transmission - a disappointment for shift-it-yourself enthusiasts.

SV and SL models are equipped with a drive mode selector that allows the driver to choose between Eco, Normal and Sport modes. Each setting carries different mapping for transmission, throttle and gearing. In sport mode, for example, Juke holds gears longer between shifts, the gas pedal is more sensitive to input, and the suspension and steering tighten up for more spirited response.

Juke is built on a modified version of Nissan's "B" platform, fitted with an independent strut front suspension. Front drive models match this with a torsion bar rear suspension, while AWD Jukes get a multi-link setup in back. Both versions pack